Ask Rusty
Ask Rusty – Why Didn’t My Friend’s Wife Get All Her SS Immediately?
Dear Rusty: A friend told me about what he believes is a strange thing in the Social Security system. His wife reached her full retirement age (FRA) of 66 several…
Read MoreAsk Rusty – Is Social Security Really a ‘Good Deal?’
Dear Rusty: You’ve said in the past that most people recoup their SS contributions within five years of starting benefits, thus Social Security “is an exceptionally good deal.” Your calculation is…
Read MoreAsk Rusty – If We Both Collect, Will Our Benefits be Affected?
Dear Rusty: I reached full retirement age back in June, but I have not yet filed to collect Social Security. My husband currently collects SS funds, and he waited until…
Read MoreAsk Rusty – Did Obama-Era Social Security Tax Cuts Hurt?
Dear Rusty: I will be retiring early next year but my question to you is: During the Obama administration, payroll taxes that employees pay were cut in half from 6.2%…
Read MoreAsk Rusty – Consider ‘Wearing Out’ Factor While Deciding Social Security
Dear Rusty: Enjoyed your recent article on claiming SS benefits. I feel, however, any decision making should also include what I call the “wearing out” factor. Yes, financial need, health, and longevity…
Read MoreAsk Rusty – Should I Take Social Security Now, Or At 70?
Dear Rusty: I was born in April 1958, and my plan has been to take my Social Security at age 70. However, my sister-in-law says that it is smarter to…
Read MoreShould I Claim Social Security Because It’s Going Bankrupt?
Dear Rusty: My best friend is going to be 62 and wants to begin taking her Social Security immediately. Her reasoning not to wait is the thought that it is…
Read MoreAsk Rusty – When Will My Disability Become My Regular Social Security?
Dear Rusty: I hope you can answer this question. I’m currently receiving Social Security Disability benefits, and I will be turning 65 in February 2026. I’m confused as to how…
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Like to Retire Early, But Don’t Want SS Reduced Dear Rusty: I will be 65 this year and my husband is 72 (he retired in 2019 at age 66). I…
Read MoreCan Spouse Claim Now, Get Half of Husband’s Later?
Dear Rusty: I would like to get an answer concerning taking my Social Security benefit soon and switching to my spouse’s benefit when he begins to take his. I am 64…
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